Dr. Bolaji Marie Odusina has expressed deep concern and outrage over the reported incidents of abuse and mistreatment of women during the recent Ozoro Festival in Delta State. Describing the situation as “deeply troubling and unacceptable,” she called for urgent action from relevant authorities and community leaders.
According to reports, several women were subjected to various forms of harassment and abuse during the cultural celebrations, raising serious questions about the safety and dignity of women in public and traditional spaces.
Dr. Odusina emphasized that cultural festivals should be a source of unity, pride, and celebration—not an environment where women feel unsafe or violated.
“No cultural practice or celebration should come at the expense of the dignity, safety, and fundamental human rights of women. What has been reported at the Ozoro Festival is a clear violation that must not be ignored, I condemned this act in all terms. Violence against women is a crime,” she stated.
She called on the Delta State Government, law enforcement agencies, and traditional institutions to conduct a thorough investigation into the incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Furthermore, Dr. Odusina urged community leaders and festival organizers to implement stricter safeguards and awareness measures to protect women and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“We must collectively work to create safe spaces for women in every aspect of society, including cultural and religious gatherings. Silence or inaction only perpetuates these harmful practices,” she added.
Dr. Odusina also encouraged civil society organizations, women’s rights groups, and the general public to speak out against gender-based violence and support victims in seeking justice.
She reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the protection of women’s rights and called for sustained dialogue and reform to address systemic issues contributing to such abuses.
